3.1 Genetic diversity indices
Overall, genetic diversity as estimated based on the number of private
alleles, nucleotide diversity (π ), and expected heterozygosity
(He ) was higher for South Africa (native range)
than for the other five populations from the introduced range (i.e., SP,
GR, GU, BR, AU) (Table 1). The smallest number of private alleles and
lowest genetic diversity were identified in Guatemala and Australia.
Inbreeding coefficients (Fis ) were very similar
and around zero across all sampling sites indicating random mating for
the different sites (Table 1). Regarding Tajima’s D , the
South African population had a negative value, showing a possible
selective sweep or recent population expansion. The remaining
populations presented positive Tajima’s D values, indicating
balancing selection or sudden population contractions (Table 1).